The famous Te Deum Prelude by Marc-Antoine Charpentier (1634-1704) is one of the best-known works of the baroque period. Charpentier studied both painting and composition in Italy before returning to his native France where he took up the post of music master to the dauphin. He also worked at the Theatre Francais where he collaborated with Moliere. He then returned to court and became music director to the Princesse de Guise, composition teacher to the Duke d'Orleans and wrote music for the dauphin's chapel. His Te Deum, of which the Prelude has become well-known, is one of many pieces he wrote for important state and religious occasions.
